PETS and rescued animals were welcomed into Bethel Baptist Church in Holywell last Sunday for a special animal blessing.

The Animal Padre, the Rev James Thompson, took the service and said how well-behaved the congregation were.

He said: ‘The event went very well indeed. The animals behaved wonderfully well and there was hardly a muffle even through the sermon – except for an approving woof at the very end

‘Four hymns – specifically written for the needs of animals and their human carers – were sung to well known traditional hymn tunes. There was also a most touching song written and sung by animal activist Judi Hewitt, who was accompanied by her husband Bob on guitar.’

He added: ‘Certificates of blessing were presented to each animal, in remembrance of their great occasion.

‘Proceeds from a voluntary collection were divided between the church and the two animal charities represented, Capricorn Animal Rescue and Flintshire Wildlife Rescue.

‘The ladies of the church put on refreshments and the animals were not forgotten with dog biscuits being provided as well as chewies.

‘The animals were mostly divided between dogs and cats but we had an owl and a hedgehog too’.